Box Score 1 | Box Score 2

WINONA, MINN. – USF Softball (21-29, 9-19 NSIC) wrapped up their 2025 campaign this afternoon with a hard-fought doubleheader at Maynard R. Johnson Field. USF battled to the end but fell in both games to Winona State, dropping a 5-4 heartbreaker in game one before falling 4-0 in game two.

---

GAME ONE: WINONA STATE 5, SIOUX FALLS 4

The Cougars outhit the Warriors 13-5 and built early momentum, but Winona State capitalized on key Cougar errors and late runs to steal the opener.

Key Performers:

• Taryn Wagner: 3-for-4, double, RBI, run scored

• Savanna Isaacson: 2-for-4, 2 RBI

• Alannah Naumann: 2-for-4, double

• Amber McKinney: 1-for-3, run scored

• Lauryn Foudree: 3.2 IP, 4 H, 3 R (2 ER), 6 BB, 1 K

• Hannah Strickland (L, 0-5): 2.1 IP, 1 H, 2 R (1 ER), 3 BB

The Cougars struck for three runs in the third inning, highlighted by Wagner's RBI single and Isaacson's two-run knock up the middle. USF added another in the fourth to take a 4-1 lead, but WSU answered with two unearned runs in the fourth and plated the go-ahead runs in the fifth to edge out the win.

---

GAME TWO: WINONA STATE 4, SIOUX FALLS 0

Facing Winona State ace Isabel Howe, USF was limited to three hits and couldn't break through in the season finale.

Key Performers:

• Kyra Knudtson: 1-for-3

• Savanna Isaacson: 1-for-3

• Amber McKinney: 1-for-3

• Maddi Duncan (L, 14-11): 6.0 IP, 10 H, 4 ER, 1 BB, 8 K

The Cougars put runners on base in nearly every inning but were unable to find the big hit. Duncan kept USF close with another complete-game performance, striking out eight and walking just one while picking up her 500th career strikeout, but a three-run sixth by the Warriors sealed the outcome.

---

SEASON RECAP

The Cougars showed flashes of dominance throughout the season, highlighted by an impressive 8-game winning streak during their spring trip in Florida and several key victories over conference opponents.

USF posted a balanced effort offensively, defensively, and in the circle:

• Savanna Isaacson led the Cougars at the plate, hitting .381 with 59 hits, 14 doubles, five triples, four home runs, and 34 RBIs

• Kyra Knudtson added a .340 average, 51 hits, and 27 RBIs off of nine doubles, two triples and two homeruns while anchoring first base

• Morgan Linstad (.336) and Jaeleigh Darnell (.329) provided steady offensive production, while Meghan Jochimsen and Alannah Naumann were consistent spark plugs in the lineup.

In the circle:

• Maddi Duncan was outstanding, leading the pitching staff with a 2.90 ERA, 173 strikeouts, and 14 wins across 149.0 innings pitched

• Lauryn Foudree, Hannah Strickland, and Gracie Johnson provided important innings and helped the Cougars stay competitive in a deep NSIC with a combined 165.1 innings pitched and 94 strikeouts.

USF's season was filled with tight battles, as 12 of their games were decided by two runs or fewer. The Cougars picked up multiple shutout wins (7 on the season) and showed their grit with two extra-inning victories.

Despite battling injuries, a coaching change and a challenging conference schedule, USF played resilient softball all year long. The Cougars' offense posted 404 hits and stole 51 bases, with contributions up and down the lineup. Defensively, the team turned six double plays and flashed strong outfield defense throughout the year.

The 2025 senior class leaves a lasting mark on the program through their leadership, character, and competitive spirit, paving the way for a bright future ahead.

For all things Sioux Falls Softball, be sure to download the USF Cougars app as well as follow along on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!